Issue link: http://southshoremagazine.uberflip.com/i/1323382
14 Being part of a family and working in a profession that is truly community-based has given me a unique opportunity to highlight some of the South Shore's greatest assets. As Executive Director of a local Chamber of Commerce and a volunteer extraordinaire, I have been able to see firsthand the hard work, dedication and skill that many of our local workers embody. When my husband and I decided to renovate our home in 2019, we knew that we wanted our new space to represent not only our family but our community as a whole. Our home features our favorite local artists, craftsmen and makers. When you personally know the people behind the business where you're buying local products and services, you enjoy a connection you would not otherwise have. Each handmade purchase supports local craft industries and people, and gives business owners confidence and a chance to further develop their skills. It also provides them with the opportunity to support themselves and then reinvest the money back to their business and community. • Local businesses are more likely to utilize other local businesses such as banks, service providers and farms. • For every $100 you spend at local businesses, $68 will stay in the community. • Independent retailers return more than three times as much money per dollar of sales to the community in which they operate than big box competitors. • Small businesses employ 77 million Americans and account for 65% of all new jobs over the past 17 years. "Behind every local business is a local family" By Lara Brait